Sometimes located beneath the left grip panel.
Because Iver Johnson Arms & Cycle Works did not always keep meticulous public records, determining the exact manufacture date requires understanding model variations, patent dates, and letter prefixes. 1. Where to Find Your Serial Number
The primary historical baseline used by appraisers today is derived from the definitive research book, Iver Johnson's Arms & Cycle Works Firearms 1871–1993 by W.E. Bill Goforth. To accurately determine your firearm's manufacture date, safety profile, and value, use this comprehensive identification manual and structured database framework. Step 1: Locating Hidden Serial Numbers Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
While the database above provides general guidelines, the definitive source for Iver Johnson research is:
Iver Johnson used a system of letter prefixes to indicate the decade and specific year of production. Prefix Type Production Era 1909 – 1919 Generally Third Model "Smokeless" frames. Single Letter 1920 – 1929 E.g., Prefix "C" often indicates 1926. Two Letters 1930 – 1939 Used for later production Safety Automatic models. All Letters 1940 – 1950 Sometimes located beneath the left grip panel
Even without an exact year, you can often determine:
Relying solely on the number stamped on the grip or frame often leads to misidentification. A robust database does not just list numbers; it cross-references those numbers with specific mechanical features to provide an accurate date of manufacture. Where to Find Your Serial Number The primary
: On top-break models, you can open the latch and pull the cylinder off to locate a matching frame number stamped underneath the top strap. Deciphering the Three Core Eras (Safety Automatic Models)
Pat. Apr 6.86 – Feb 15.87 – May 10.87 Frame: Small frame, exposed hammer, leaf spring Serial: 78,412 Caliber: .38 S&W
Understanding how to decipher these classic top-break and solid-frame handguns requires analyzing hidden serial locations, structural indicators, and decoding chronological tracking charts. Critical Serial Number Locations
The value of a serial number database goes beyond simple curiosity; it ensures safety and value.
Sometimes located beneath the left grip panel.
Because Iver Johnson Arms & Cycle Works did not always keep meticulous public records, determining the exact manufacture date requires understanding model variations, patent dates, and letter prefixes. 1. Where to Find Your Serial Number
The primary historical baseline used by appraisers today is derived from the definitive research book, Iver Johnson's Arms & Cycle Works Firearms 1871–1993 by W.E. Bill Goforth. To accurately determine your firearm's manufacture date, safety profile, and value, use this comprehensive identification manual and structured database framework. Step 1: Locating Hidden Serial Numbers
While the database above provides general guidelines, the definitive source for Iver Johnson research is:
Iver Johnson used a system of letter prefixes to indicate the decade and specific year of production. Prefix Type Production Era 1909 – 1919 Generally Third Model "Smokeless" frames. Single Letter 1920 – 1929 E.g., Prefix "C" often indicates 1926. Two Letters 1930 – 1939 Used for later production Safety Automatic models. All Letters 1940 – 1950
Even without an exact year, you can often determine:
Relying solely on the number stamped on the grip or frame often leads to misidentification. A robust database does not just list numbers; it cross-references those numbers with specific mechanical features to provide an accurate date of manufacture.
: On top-break models, you can open the latch and pull the cylinder off to locate a matching frame number stamped underneath the top strap. Deciphering the Three Core Eras (Safety Automatic Models)
Pat. Apr 6.86 – Feb 15.87 – May 10.87 Frame: Small frame, exposed hammer, leaf spring Serial: 78,412 Caliber: .38 S&W
Understanding how to decipher these classic top-break and solid-frame handguns requires analyzing hidden serial locations, structural indicators, and decoding chronological tracking charts. Critical Serial Number Locations
The value of a serial number database goes beyond simple curiosity; it ensures safety and value.